How to Install Linux on Your Computer
The most popular operating system on the planet, linux is in almost everything from your smartphones and automobiles to your Roku devices, home desktop computers and enterprise servers. Linux is free to use, has a huge developer community and is one of the most reliable, secure and worry-free operating systems on the market.
Linux is based on the open source Unix-like POSIX operating system. It is a kernel-based operating system, which establishes communication between computer hardware and software and performs various other functions on the computer. It also performs the role of a file system, which manages and controls the storage space on your hard drive.
Like any other operating system, linux has multiple versions or “flavors,” which are known as distributions. Each one has a specific set of software and features that may differ slightly from other versions of the operating system. Some of these are designed for new users, others are tailored to more advanced computer users. Many of these software options can be downloaded from a central database and installed on the computer.
There are a variety of ways to install linux, with most of them being easy enough for even a novice computer user to follow. You can start with a Live distribution, which allows you to run the operating system from a CD or USB flash drive without making any changes to your hard disk. This is an excellent way to try out the operating system and see if it is right for you.
Alternatively, you can install a full-fledged operating system by using an installer package. The most common packages include a graphical or command-line interface, a collection of tools, a file system and an init program (such as the traditional sysvinit or newer ones such as systemd, OpenRC or Upstart).
You can also install additional software, known as applications, on your computer. These are available in all sorts of categories, from desktop utilities to programming languages and multiuser business suites. Most Linux distributors offer a central database to search for and download these applications.
While Linux is free to use, most companies charge for system support and other services. However, you can save a lot of money by switching to a Linux-based operating system instead of a commercial version such as Microsoft Windows or Apple macOS. This is because Linux does not have licensing costs and, unlike other operating systems, it has a long history of stability, dependability and security. Additionally, if you keep your system updated with the latest software, it is generally far less vulnerable to ransomware and viruses.
